President Cyril Ramaphosa has acknowledged the ongoing struggle associated with the use of race-based terminology in South Africa’s official records. During an in-depth dialogue about economic growth and the rising cost of living, he underscored the complex legacy of apartheid that still resonates within the nation.
Ramaphosa responded to inquiries on the sensitive topic of racial classifications still prevalent in national surveys and statistical reports, maintaining that despite the discomfort they evoke, these terms are necessary for gauging the nation’s advancement in addressing historical and structural inequalities. He stated, “The use of race-based terminology will always be difficult for a country like ours to accept, especially as we work to put behind us the racial injustices of the past.” This acknowledgment reflects a broader societal engagement with the remnants of a divided history.
The President noted that the national statistics agency, Stats SA, continues to employ classifications such as Black African, Coloured, Indian/Asian, and White in their census and reporting. He asserted that while these terms may be problematic, they serve a crucial purpose in tracking societal progress toward true equality.
“Until we have reached our goal of equality for all people in our country, there will be circumstances when we need to use such terminology,” Ramaphosa explained. He elaborated that this usage should not be viewed as static identifiers but rather as essential tools to understand and ultimately dismantle inequality.
Ramaphosa articulated a vision for a future where racial classifications become obsolete, stating, “Our responsibility is to ensure that these terms ultimately make the differences they refer to less and less important, until they are rendered meaningless and no longer serve any purpose.” He described the journey as one that seeks to transcend the divisions created by the apartheid system. “What is important is that we stop seeing ourselves through definitions meant to divide us,” he remarked.
The President’s reflections come at a crucial time in South Africa’s journey toward social unity and equality. “We are, as you would say, on a journey, a journey away from the shadow of our horrible past, a past that defined us as separate groups and separate entities,” he remarked, expressing confidence in the gradual yet consistent progress the nation is making.